Is Casing the Same as Baseboard?

Casing and baseboards are sometimes confused in their differences and similarities. During renovations, they can easily be mistaken for each other because of their appearance. They both have decorative qualities and can be made from similar materials.

Casing and baseboards are both used as transition pieces to conceal gaps at joints with wall surfaces. The main difference is that casings are used at window and door openings while baseboards are used at the connection to the floor. There are also size differences between casings and baseboards. Casings are slightly thicker than baseboards.

Whether you’re new to home remodeling or renovating, don’t worry because there are plenty of resources and alternative methods for using casings and baseboards. Casings and baseboards can be interchangeable, but understanding the difference will help you prepare and get exactly what you’re looking for in your project!

The Difference Between Casing and Baseboards

If you accidentally use casing instead of baseboards, your project won’t be ruined. Typically, there are some insider details when selecting a baseboard as there are some differences.

Baseboards should already be two inches taller than any casing forms are wide. However, the baseboard should be about 1/8 inch thinner than the casing so that a nice connection is created when casing and baseboard meet.

For example, if the baseboard is not thinner than the casing, you will need to trim the casing so that the end of the baseboard at the junction creates a shadow line.

Baseboard

Baseboards are also commonly known as skirting boards. The purpose of a baseboard or skirting board is to enhance the decor and beautify your home. They cover the junction areas between walls and floors.

All they do is give the room a particularly finished look that hides any imperfections. A small detail can go a long way with just a simple baseboard.

Materials Used to Make Baseboards

Baseboards are typically made from small wooden strips but are not limited to fiberboard. Polyurethane and also materials that can expand around the perimeter of the room. Baseboards cover the areas and gaps that the floor joint may not cover well, such as in front of the doors.

The prices of these baseboards can vary depending on the design and execution of the material used for the board. The more detailed the design or fascinating patterns, the more money it will cost. However, it is your preference. Perhaps you like a relaxed classic look, or you prefer a more elegant design.

Casing Molding

The other type of molding is casing molding. The confusion of whether it is similar to baseboards is that it can be used in DIY projects as well. Casing moldings are also referred to as “trim.” This molding is used to frame the exterior of doors and windows. They are known for accentuating the surround of doors and windows.

Materials Used to Make Casing Moldings

Casing moldings are also made from materials similar to those used for baseboards: wood, polyurethane, or fiberboard. The most popular product for casings is wood. Wood provides a more classic style that gives the room a timeless feel.

The only downside of wood products is that they can attract termites. The other products, microfiber and polyurethane, may not look as classic as wood, but they don’t have the issues with termites like wood does.

The prices for these materials are more expensive than wood, but they can be painted and give a wrinkle-free texture. The more detailed the design on any of these materials for molding, the more it generally costs.

Alternatives to using baseboards are materials referred to as base blocks. Base blocks are thicker than casings but taller than baseboards.

How to Choose the Right Molding

When deciding on a molding size and specific style, it comes down to three factors:

• Personal preferences
• Size of the room
• Ceiling height

There are resources that can help you select the best size for your home.

Ceiling height

Some of these resources include Google search engines and home project stores such as Lowe’s or Home Depot. The great thing about these resources is that there are online videos with step-by-step instructions for installing baseboards. If you prefer to speak with an experienced professional, online resources can help you find a professional who installs moldings to save you hassle and confusion.

In addition, you can also reach out to a home improvement representative for advice on the size of baseboards or casings you may need specifically for your project requirements.

Tools Required to Successfully Complete a Casing or Baseboard Project

Every home project requires a specific set of materials and tools from start to finish. All of these tools play an important role in the installation of baseboards or casings. The tools needed for installing baseboards and/or casings include:

● Miter saw, handsaw, or backsaw

● Coping saw

● Finishing nails

● Finish nailer

● Hammer

● Nail set

Miter and Backsaw

Saws like the miter saw and backsaw allow for perfect angled cuts. The coping saw has a thin blade that allows you to achieve the perfect curve at the end of the board so that it aligns flush with the other pieces.

Finishing Nails, Nail Set, and Finish Nailer

If you’re using a finish nailer, you won’t need a hammer. Just keep in mind that spring-loaded staplers should not be used as they can damage the molding.

Another important tip is that there may be nails in all sorts of shapes and sizes. The most commonly used size or finishing nails are between one and a half inches to one and a half inches. If the board will be exposed to exterior conditions, make sure to use stainless steel for the best results.

A nail set is used to drive the nails below the wood surface without damaging the board.

Other Items You Should Have on Hand

Other things you may want to include during your home project are safety goggles, a dust mask, and gloves. Safety goggles may seem obvious, but sometimes they get overlooked in DIY projects. Don’t let your ego get in the way. It’s always good to take precautions and protect your eyes, hands, and even your health. Without taking the necessary precautions,

Additional Steps After Installing the Moldings

If you’re curious about what comes next after installing your baseboards, you may want to know if painting or staining is applicable. You can paint or stain them to make them stand out or draw attention to the door or combine them with a classic stained look for a seamless fit.

Painting or Staining Accessories

When it comes to painting or staining moldings, in addition to preparing the moldings for installation, you will need some additional tools. These consumable supplies include:

● Drop cloth

● Sandpaper

● Rags

● Paint or stain 

● Brushes 

● Wood filler 

● Gloves

Drop cloth to catch any obvious paint or stain that may come into contact with your floor if there are any drips. Sandpaper to smooth out the entire material for a clean paint job and rags for clean up and painting or staining. A brush is an important tool here and wood filler to fill in any gaps or imperfections for a smooth surface.

Summary: Casing and Baseboards

When it comes to understanding the difference between casing and baseboards for your home projects, remember that it’s okay if you’ve completed the projects and used one instead of the other. A simple way to remember the difference ultimately before starting your project is the size difference between the two.